Founder of The Black Farmer, The Inspiration Behind The Channel 4 Series ‘Young Black Farmers’, Author of “Jeopardy: The Danger of Playing It Safe on the Path to Success” & Creator of the Black Farmer Scholarship

Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, better known as The Black Farmer, is an influential British businessman and farming pioneer. He founded the award-winning brand The Black Farmer, a multi-million-pound venture that champions locally sourced, environmentally conscious and gluten-free products, all approved by Coeliac UK. A passionate advocate for diversity and rural enterprise, he has used his platform to tackle social issues while building a nationally recognised food brand. In 2020, he was appointed MBE for services to British farming, marking his lasting impact on the agricultural and food industries.

Wilfred’s journey to prominence in the food and farming industry is both unconventional and inspiring. Born in Jamaica and raised in inner-city Birmingham, his childhood dream of owning a farm was realised at the age of forty when he acquired Higher West Kitcham Farm. His eclectic early career shaped his entrepreneurial resilience, spanning time in the army, working as a chef, political campaigning and later serving as a food director at the BBC. Building on this experience, he launched a London-based food and drink marketing company, which laid the foundation for his own farming venture.

In 2007, he established The Black Farmer brand, a business focused on healthy, environmentally friendly and gluten-free products. Alongside building a thriving enterprise, he created the Black Farmer Scholarship to encourage greater ethnic minority representation within the rural sector. His career demonstrates a unique ability to unite business innovation with social progress, cementing his position as a leading figure in British food and farming.

Wilfred has published two acclaimed books, ‘The Black Farmer Cookbook’ and ‘Jeopardy: The Danger of Playing it Safe on the Path to Success’. His story and mission have also been shared through a variety of media appearances, including Cameron’s Black Tory and Carpool. He went on to inspire the Channel 4 documentary ‘Young Black Farmers’, which highlighted new opportunities for ethnic minorities in the rural sector.

Why Hire Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones?

Wilfred is booked as a leading food and farming speaker because he embodies resilience, vision and social change. His entrepreneurial achievements are matched by his commitment to representation in rural Britain, inspiring diverse audiences. His Black Farmer brand continues to expand, with funding secured in 2025 to launch dedicated shops across the UK.

With an MBE honouring his contribution to British farming, Wilfred brings authority and authenticity to every stage. His speaking engagements draw on real experiences of overcoming barriers, building inclusive enterprises and challenging perceptions, making him a powerful and motivational voice in the industry.

To book Wilfred to speak at your event, call SpeakOut on +44 (0) 20 8914 8966. Alternatively, complete our contact form to begin your enquiry.